Who puts red roses on Anne Boleyn's grave?

Red Roses on Anne Boleyn’s Grave: A Family’s Lasting Tribute

Every year on May 19th, a quiet tradition unfolds within the walls of Westminster Abbey. Nestled beside the altar in the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula, a simple bouquet of red roses appears on the unmarked stone believed to mark the final resting place of Anne Boleyn. The gesture, both poignant and enduring, is the work of the Bullen family — descendants of Anne’s sister, Mary Boleyn, through an unbroken line of quiet remembrance.

For over 150 years, this tradition has continued without fail. Though Anne’s life ended tragically in 1536, accused of treason and executed within the Tower of London, her legacy has never truly faded. The red roses — symbolic of love, passion, and the Tudor lineage — serve as a personal homage from those who trace their bloodline back to her family.

The Bullens, who adopted a variation of the original surname, have kept this ritual alive across generations. It’s a rare and intimate connection to history, one passed down like a cherished heirloom. While Anne’s story often captivates historians and dramatists alike, this annual tribute brings a deeply human element to the narrative — not grand politics or royal intrigue, but familial love and loyalty.

Visitors to the chapel often pause at the spot, unaware of the quiet figures who ensure the roses are fresh each year. No fanfare, no announcement — just a gesture that speaks volumes. In a world obsessed with rediscovering the past, the Bullen family reminds us that some bonds outlive centuries.